Now in its fifth generation, BMW's 3 Series carries on as one of the world's premier driving machines. Both Sedan and Sport Wagon variants add more power and performance for 2007, an upgrading that also sees the former 325 and 330 lines redesignated as 328 and 335 models. Even the more affordable members of the familyrear-wheel-drive 328i Sedan and Sport Wagon and all-wheel-drive 328xi Sedan and Sport Wagonoffer an impressive roster of comfort and convenience touches in addition to their crisply-tuned suspension packages, standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and powerful anti-lock brakes (ABS) that continue to win rave reviews from driving fans everywhere.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're a genuine driving enthusiast who still believes that there's just something special about German automotive engineering, virtually any selection from the 328i/328xi menu could be just what you're looking for. Even at its entry level, the 3 Series package provides an engaging mix of character, quality and performance.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you prefer a suspension tuned more towards ride comfort than control, want a rear seat with lots of legroom or need a spacious trunk, the 3 Series may be less attractive than some of its European or Japanese competitorsalthough the Sport Wagon does offer 25-percent more cargo room even with the rear seat up. BMW's iDrive integrated controller that's included with the optional navigation system also has been criticized for its unnecessary complexity.

What's Significant About This Car?

While displacement of the in-line six-cylinder engine in the 328i/328xi remains at 3.0 liters, the latest iteration incorporates upgrades that help bump output from 215 to 230 horsepower and raise maximum torque from 185 to 200 pound-feet. Galvanic silver trim elements add a more upscale look to the interior and pre-wiring for SIRIUS Satellite Radio becomes standard, while two new colors enhance the exterior palette.

Driving the 3 Series

Driving Impressions
True to tradition, even the entry-level 3 Series offers a full measure of BMW's legendary driving DNA. Fortified with more power and torque for 2007, both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants,...

in either body style and with either transmission, are quicker from zero to 60 mph and even more capable of easily coping with any kind of traffic situation. There's a precise feel to the steering and the well-sorted suspension provides exceptional confidence through even the most challenging corners. While some may find the ride a tad too tautparticularly when fitted with the optional Sport Packagewe think the handling advantages more than offset any minor comfort tradeoff. BMW's excellent xDrive all-wheel-drive system also makes dealing with inclement weather considerably less stressful.

Favorite Features

Start-off AssistantOrder a 3 Series with a manual transmission and you'll enjoy the benefits of this subtle but effective helper that automatically applies the brakes for a few seconds whenever you're stopped on a hill to help prevent the car from rolling backwards while you engage first gear.

Optional Active Steering This high-tech adjunct to the standard power steering varies the effective turning ratio to correspond with vehicle velocity, making it easier to maneuver at low speeds while enhancing stability under freeway cruising conditions.

2007 BMW 3 Series Details

Interior

Although slightly roomier than any of its predecessors, the 3 Series remains a compact sedan that provides better accommodations in its firm but comfortably supportive front buckets than in a rear benchwhere six-footers are apt to feel a bit confined. The clean, elegant look is highlighted by standard leatherette upholstery set off by Burl Walnut, Poplar Natural Wood or aluminum trim. Legible white-on-black instruments and a multifunction steering wheel on a tilt/telescoping column reinforce its driver-centric character, while models fitted with the optional navigation package get an alternative "double-wave" dash to accommodate the central video display. Other nice touches include tri-zone climate control and a keyless startup system

Exterior

A relatively long wheelbase coupled with short front and rear overhangs, plus a slight wedge shape, gives the compact 3 Series a dynamic flair that reflects common styling cues with the larger 5 Series and 7 Series, elements that are further reinforced by the signature twin-kidney grilles. Unique headlamp and taillight treatments help define the 3 Series' character, and the 17-inch wheels that are part of the optional Sport Package impart an even more aggressive stance than the standard 16-inch alloy rims. All 328i/328xi models are fitted with extended-mobility run-flat tires, so no spare is included.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In keeping with its performance heritage, the 3 Series emphasizes precise handling by augmenting its well-tuned suspension with the comprehensive Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. DSC interfaces with the car's powerful anti-lock brakes (ABS) as well as with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) on rear-wheel-drive models or Hill Descent Control (HDC) on all-wheel-drive vehicles. In addition to the expected power assists, the 3 Series offers numerous comfort/convenience touches including cruise control, 10-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, Bluetooth wireless connectivity and a single (Sedans) or dual (Sport Wagons) power moonroof. All models feature run-flat tires, dual front and front-side airbags plus BMW's front- and rear-seat Head Protection System (HPS).

Revamped for 2007, the latest generation of BMW's ultra-smooth 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine now makes 230 horsepower (up from 215) and 200 pound-feet of torque (up from 185). That added muscle helps drop zero to 60-mph times on all models but has almost no impact on the overall fuel economy, whether you pair it with the six-speed manual or six-speed multi-mode Steptronic automatic transmission. Another welcome touch is BMW's sophisticated Valvetronic variable valve-timing system that bolsters low- and mid-range responsiveness while helping make the engine even more efficient.

"Love, love this car... such a pleasure to look at and drive; every time I get in I have fun, and the heated seats just add to that! I've never owned a car that hugged the turns so well, or allowed me to enter traffic and keep up a brisk pace with such ease and confidence. The only drawback is the bucket seat, in that it is a little hard to get in and out of if you're not used to a low profile car. Not good for someone who needs tons of cushioning or who has bad hips let's say. It's a sports car, and that's what makes it awesome! This driving machine is to love and use if that's what you're looking for! Only reason I'm selling it is that we are getting ready to move out west to mountain area, and I need to look at 4WD... sad to let her go, but this is truly a driver's car with good looks and a spectacular engine!!"

I love this car...!!

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating

10/10

Value

9/10

Reliability

10/10

Quality

10/10

Performance

10/10

Styling

8/10

Comfort

8/10

Pros: "German Engineering"

Cons: "German Engineering is expensive"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This car drives like a dream, it zips around town hugging the edges, is sexy. This is the "ultimate" driving experience. I have driven loaner cars while I have had my regular maintenance and I do not like the new models as well. The road handling and power is the best for the price."

Love it, but I'm going to have to sell it

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating

9/10

Value

8/10

Reliability

3/10

Quality

7/10

Performance

9/10

Styling

8/10

Comfort

8/10

Pros: "Best car ever"

Cons: "Maintenance is ridiculous"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 5

"I absolutely love my car. It was my dream. But not even 2 years later and almost $8,000+ in repairs I just cannot continue. The hardest part is that it's the best car I've ever owned. Fun to drive. Sexy. Comfortable and the drive experience is absolutely amazing. If you can afford to fix the issues it doesn't matter but repairs are outrageous and totally necessary. In looking up reviews sadly I am not the only person with this problem thus my decision to let her go. I may buy another BMW but I will be very wary of what I decide to get.. Sad to let her go :("